Keep The Faith

Opinion - Our Views

Americans Should Stay Focused On The Big Picture: Democracy Has Risen To The Occasion Thousands Of Times.

December 2, 2000|By Brown

For generations, the United States and its Statue of Liberty have served as beacons of hope for struggling, oppressed people everywhere.

Now, as the world's leading democracy deals with a drawn-out presidential-election result, critics suggest that this nation and its esteemed statue are figuratively sinking in muck.

Those critics should take a look around the globe to see just how buoyant and infectious is the United States' commitment to democracy.

Today, freely elected officials sitting in capitals in almost two-thirds of nations -- the most in history -- can thank the United States, in large part, for setting the standards, championing the cause and directly contributing to the opening of free political systems in all regions.

In the misery of war-torn Europe in the mid-1940s, hope arrived under the banner of the United States, as this nation sought to rebuild its allies and strengthen their governments. In that nurturing environment, democracy thrived and held at bay the menacing Soviet-bloc ideology to the east. Nearly a half-century later, the Soviet bloc crumbled and its once-shackled members raced to kiss democracy's ring.

In many parts of Asia, Africa and Latin America, this nation also reached out with helping hands, delivering aid, advice and political support. Latin America has registered special success, with democratic governments in almost every country.

How far can the democracy revolution can go? Has it crested?

Actually, the cause simply requires ongoing effort.

Many obstacles litter the road to democracy -- notably in places where it has little or no history, such as Russia. But even in those challenging places, even when democracy takes a few steps forward and then a step backward, it makes progress.

People in emerging democracies, like those in established ones, having tasted choice and freedom, do not willingly return to tyranny.

Democracy thrives in the hearts and minds of people as much as it is symbolized by the political achievements of nations that embrace it.

Perception, of course, responds to events that may inspire or reduce confidence. Right now, the U.S. presidential tussle has contributed much to feelings of anxiety. Americans, though, should retain their view of the big picture.

Democracy has worked and risen to the occasion thousands of times in this nation's history. And, as the global record underscores, democracy is winning the day for an increasing number of people.

Americans should take pride in those achievements. A freer world is, in itself, a useful development. It also complements U.S. interests.

Despite the messiness of the 2000 presidential election, Americans have every reason to keep the faith and further the cause, much as they did when they began it all, two and a quarter centuries ago.